Kinky Friedman, Quick-Witted Country Musician & Writer Dies at 79
Country singer-songwriter best known for his humorous hits, Richard Samet “Kinky” Friedman, has sadly passed away at the age of 79. He died at his Medina, Texas ranch after a battle with Parkinson’s disease. His death was confirmed on X.
The statement read, “Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends. Kinkster endured tremendous pain & unthinkable loss in recent years, but he never lost his fighting spirit and quick wit. Kinky will live on as his books are read and his songs are sung.”
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His estate also shared something he wrote back in 1993 about his love of animals and hope to see them all one day. It read, “They say when you die and go to heaven all the dogs and cats you’ve ever had in your life come running to meet you.” (Writer’s note: Gosh, how I hope this is true! Don’t you?)
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Friedman has been in the music business for decades with some of his most popular songs being “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Sold American.” In the ’70s, he formed the band Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys and his father reportedly objected to the name and many of the satirical songs which gave him even more reason to keep them going. His final album was 2018’s Circus of Life. He was also a published writer and wrote several novels and a column in Texas Monthly. His most recent book was called What Would Kinky Do? How to Unscrew a Screwed Up World. Additionally, Friedman ran for governor in Texas in 2006 with the slogan “How hard can it be?”
He will be missed. Share your favorite song or book of his in the comments!
Kings Of Country
March 2022
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